Pluriversal Excellence in EU Studies

forthcoming

"PLURIEX is a JMCE strategically designed to embrace epistemic pluriversality in EU studies and as dynamic hub of knowledge and expertise on EU studies. It champions epistemic plurality by integrating inter-, cross-, and multi-disciplinary approaches, while embracing epistemic diversity through the deliberate inclusion of underrepresented voices, scholars beyond Europe, and expertise that challenges male-dominated narratives. PLURIEX expands EU studies through inclusive, innovative, and globally relevant discourse, driving research, teaching, expert panels, ECR workshops, and writing retreats. It builds on and expands the disciplinary focus of two previous initiatives: the Jean Monnet Chair on Feminist Epistemic Justice in the EU and Beyond (FEJUST) at Bahçeşehir University (2022-2025) and TÜBİTAK project ""The Role of Elite Sociology in Understanding the Policy-Making Process of Turkey-EU Relations"" (2022-2025), both concluding before the proposed centre's launch. A key aspect of pluriversalizing EU knowledge is amplifying the voices of EU experts in Turkey’s ministries and EU directorates, who manage the technical and operational dimensions of Turkey-EU relations across 35 negotiation chapters. Originally designed for epistemic pluriversality, these bureaucratic positions have been increasingly marginalized. Building on these projects, PLURIEX will integrate bureaucratic experts from the EU-related departments across various ministries and academic experts from diverse faculties and departments to diversify EU studies, enrich policymaking. PLURIEX is a timely and essential initiative amid Turkey’s retrenchment from the EU and declining youth engagement, advocating for a broader, technically informed discourse on EU-Turkey relations whilst serving as a bridge between academia and non-academic stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, civil society, and the media, fostering inclusive dialogue to bring the EU closer to citizens and strengthen European democracy."